Chicago Visitor Guide
Your Essential Trip Planning Handbook
Everything you need to know before visiting Chicago — from neighborhoods and transportation to must-try foods, attractions, and local tips.
Before You Go: What Every Visitor Should Know
- Chicago has two major airports — O’Hare and Midway — both connected to public transit.
- The city is easy to navigate with a grid system, walkable neighborhoods, and the “L” train.
- Weather can change quickly — pack layers in any season.
- Each season offers unique events and attractions.
- Major sights are downtown, but the neighborhoods offer the best food and culture.
Before your trip, check what’s happening in the city with our Chicago Events Guide.
Best Areas to Explore
Chicago is a city of neighborhoods — each with its own personality, dining scene, and attractions. Start your exploration with these must-visit areas:
- The Loop — Architecture, Millennium Park, theaters
- River North — Dining, nightlife, art galleries
- West Loop — Restaurants, Fulton Market
- South Loop — Museums, lakefront
- Lincoln Park — Zoo, parks, walkable streets
- Wicker Park — Shopping, coffee shops, indie culture
- Hyde Park — University of Chicago, museums
Explore all neighborhoods in our
What to Eat: Essential Chicago Foods
Chicago’s food scene is legendary. Start with these iconic dishes and explore the city through its flavors.
Getting Around Chicago
Chicago is easy to explore with trains, buses, rideshare, and walkable neighborhoods. Here’s how to travel smoothly:
- CTA trains & buses — affordable and reliable for most visitors
- Rideshare — plentiful citywide
- Walkable downtown — many attractions are close together
- Biking — Divvy bike-share stations across the city
- Don’t rent a car unless your plans require it (parking is expensive)
Chicago by Season
See the best things to do in Chicago year-round with seasonal guides tailored to weather, events, and local highlights.
Best Places to Stay in Chicago
Chicago’s neighborhoods offer unique experiences for every traveler. Here are the best areas to consider:
- River North — central, walkable, hotel-heavy
- The Loop — close to attractions
- Magnificent Mile — shopping, skyline views
- South Loop — museums, quieter nights
For hotel recommendations and traveler tips, explore our complete Where to Stay Guide.
Chicago Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Chicago remains a popular and generally safe city for tourists, particularly in its central and well-traveled districts. As with any urban environment, it is wise to remain vigilant—avoid isolated areas after dark, maintain awareness of your belongings, and utilize trusted transportation options. Local insights suggest staying within areas known for their vibrant nightlife and community centers to ensure a secure, enjoyable visit.
A: The optimal periods tend to be spring and early fall. These seasons offer mild weather ideal for walking tours and outdoor events, without the high volumes of summer tourists. Winter, though enchanting with its snowy landscapes, calls for extra preparation, particularly in less trafficked neighborhoods.
A: Chicago’s extensive transit system, including buses and trains, makes urban exploration straightforward. Consider multi-day transit passes to easily hop between iconic neighborhoods and hidden culinary or cultural spots.
A: Each area of Chicago has its own character. Explore artsy districts, historic enclaves, and lakeside communities, all offering unique local treasures and cultural insights.
A: Engage with community markets, savor regional cuisine, and join neighborhood walking tours. These activities provide practical insights and an authentic connection to Chicago’s dynamic local life.
For more travel tips, guides, and local insights, visit our Chicago Blog.
Ready to Explore Chicago?
Use this guide to plan the perfect trip — from neighborhoods and dining to attractions and seasonal highlights. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Chicago has something new waiting for you.
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